4.6 ·
Climb into the National Basilica of the Sacred Heart, one of Europe's largest Art Deco churches. Walk the vast nave, then go up to the gallery for wide views across Brussels.
Full description
The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg is a very large Roman Catholic church in Art Deco style, crowned by a dome and flanked by two towers, and it houses two museums. Visitors can pay a small fee to reach the upper gallery and the roof area, where reviewers say the views over Brussels justify the effort.
Inside, paintings and the sheer scale of the nave reward a slow walk. Plan around 45 minutes, or up to two hours if you take the lift to the top and visit the museums.
The National Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Koekelberg is a very large Roman Catholic church in Art Deco style, crowned by a dome and flanked by two towers, and it houses two museums. Visitors can pay a small fee to reach the upper gallery and the roof area, where reviewers say the views over Brussels justify the effort.
Inside, paintings and the sheer scale of the nave reward a slow walk. Plan around 45 minutes, or up to two hours if you take the lift to the top and visit the museums.
Duration
45 min
Best time
morning, lunchtime, afternoon or early evening
Intensity
Easy pace
Good to know
Reviews
I was there on Epiphany Day in 2026. I discovered a wonderful place north of Brussels. What made it even more special than usual was the snow surrounding the Basilica. Visiting the interior, you'll be enchanted by the spacious Art Deco spaces. I also took the elevators up to the roof. From there, you can enjoy a…
Ciro ADAMO
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